Kade and Art. St.Mary’s high school - a spirit who challenged the art practice and ideologies. Kade had texture, shape of her vibrant soul in others: an investment of true listening . This is why she could relate - seek new friendships just by living - striving. Kade taught her art teacher, Ms. Miller another perspective. LOVE for what we are to give as a gift. Kades gift was pure ART. I have a small sketchbook of hers - I feel such a loss of learning in my heart . Wanda and family, I am sending out prayers . Juliana Miller-MacPherson

My deepest condolences to Kade's family and friends.

I had known Kade since junior high, as we went to the same school for junior high and high school. We became friends in high school and though we did not see each other for years afterwards, we kept in touch and were engaged with what each other were up to.

She was a very special person, with a shiny soul and I know she impacted many people while she was here. I am grateful that I was able to know her, and see the creative output she contributed to this world and feel her genuine kindness.

Kade will be very much missed, but not forgotten!

I met Kade when we were both attending St. Marys high school. She saw me in a different light than anyone else did, as she had the unique capacity to see people for what they held within their souls.

We watched countless movies together, sometimes double header features at the Palace theatre in downtown Calgary, other times from inside a fort that we had made together. We also would share music and frequent concerts as well. From local punk shows at small local venues, to large scale performances at the Jubilee or Saddledome or often just sharing CDs that we had burned for each other.

As most highschool friends after graduating there was long periods of time when we didnt talk to or see eachother, but we would always find our way back and when we did it was as though we had spoken the day before. She was one of very few people that I felt I could be truly intimate with on a soulful level. She affectionately called me Charlie Brown or her little Hobbit due to my own reclusive nature.

I cant say enough good things about my beloved Kroko and the wonderful memories I have of her. She will be dearly missed by me, as Im sure so many others will as well.

My deepest condolences to her family, and anyone else whos feeling the loss of the warmth that her bright shining light offered. I will always carry a bit of her light with me and resonate it outwards in her honor.

Wanda,

It was just recently that I heard about your loss of your Dear Kade passing. I wish there were words to express or meet the sorrow your broken heart is struggling to manage, there are none.

I know Kade's light will continue to shine bright through you and all those that share her story.

You and Kade will remain in our prayers.

Adele Parks (Turgeon)

You will always hold a special part in my heart. You were truly a blessing , the most caring understanding person I ever met. No one ever understood me like you did and that's why our bond was unbreakable. From driving out to the prairies to lounging by the river for hours with hopper doing nothing but conversating and expressing our " artistic souls" as you would call it. I love you buddy and I ALWAYS will. Condolences to the family on this tragedy. She was truly very special and I will cherish those times forever. You will never be forgotten beautiful .

I met Kade in modern dance classes here in Victoria BC, about 11 years ago. We connected instantly, a magical connection, our souls recognized each other's, the way that happens when you're a child on the playground. It was beautiful to connect with someone like that, clumsily learning to dance. He smile, her spirit struck me immediately, she was positively radiant with a mystical energy beaming through her. And she was goofy, and quick to giggle like me. We spoke the same language. We spent some time together that year, and shared poetry. My memories of her are very vivid, even though we lost touch over the years, she left a profound impression on my spirit. My deepest, deepest condolences to her family. There really are no words. Rest in peace, and dance with the poets among the stars Kade.

Two words surface...Pixie and Firecracker Sending all our love, Wanda. Cari,Luke and Oskar

"My heart aches." I could not agree more. I am grateful to have taught Kade and just to have been around her at AU. A sensitive and searching soul, who sought to shine her light through the darkness that seemed to envelope her. She tried so hard. I feel deep, deep sadness. My sincerest condolences to family and friends.

We are so very fortunate to have had Kade in our lives, and will miss her wonderful smile and compassionate personality. Our deepest condolences to you, Wanda and family - Kade's spirit will live on in more ways that we will ever know, she touched so many people in her life and made the world a better place.

My heart aches - we will all miss her.

Kade was a wonderful person, who inspired me on many levels.  Her compassion and originality bring to mind a beautiful old-soul, and she was truly beautiful.  I am very fortunate for having met Kade and I will always cherish our time together.  

I will never forget our camping trip to Kilarney Park, and our laughable misadventures along the way.  Kade was a real trooper and never even complained about the ridiculous 80lbs hike packs that I unwittingly burdened us with. Despite a grueling hike, Kade kept a brave face, which I know was largely for my benefit.  She really cared about making it a memorable experience for me. 

My deepest condolences and love go out to you Wanda and family, as we treasure our memories of Kade.

I am deeply saddened hearing that Kade has passed. My deepest sympathies go out to her family. Rest in Peace, Kade.

I can close my eyes and see the beautiful little girl with a heart-warming smile, and the teen with incessant curiosity, deep-rooted written word and incredibly brilliant mind. There are truly no words. There is nothing relatable. Wanda, I wish you, Karl, Michela, Lucy and Harry strength and courage. Hold tightly to memories as those outlast time, but also, within them, you will find smiles and if you allow yourself, even some laughter. I send you all my most sincere condolences, with much love.

No words can express what I want to say. My prayers are for all of you who have been touched by Kade

We are heartbroken to hear of Kade's passing. Over the years we met Kade as a little girl and she was so sparkly. Spending time with Kade in Italy was such a great experience. I found her to be fun-loving, mischievous, kind, welcoming, and she always had her camera with her. We are praying for peace and comfort for you, dear Wanda, Karl and Michela, Lucy and Harry and Kade's many friends. With love and our deepest sympathy.

Wanda, I have such fond memories of Kade and Samantha playing together as little girls. I am so sorry that she has passed away. Our thoughts are with you.

We will always remember the beautiful little Angel dancing down the isle at St. Joseph's Church, the sweet little teenager full of smiles thst spelled Sunshine when she shopped for groceries with her momand the Amazing young woman she grew up to be. Our deepest condolences go out to our friends st this time of their loss. She will watch over you from heaven. Always in our hearts will she be our sweet little Kade.

I remember Kade as an incandescent, bright flame of woman. Her acerbic wit and irresistible laughter never failed to lift me, and those around her, into a world of boundless cinematic sweep. She had this Sally Bowles gusto and razzle-dazzle that I deeply admired, knowing how rare such life-force is.

If she had lived in the 60's, she would be a mercurial muse to French new wave directors. Except she truly flourished behind the lens: her photographic eye conveyed an old, and haunted soul determined to shine a light in forgotten and liminal places. Her endless curiosity about humans, and what makes them tick, came through in the warmth, and psychological depth of her photos.

Though I only knew her briefly, I could sense that Kade was an intrepid seeker of the entire breadth of human emotion. Her vulnerability, curiosity and generous heart always radiated through her wickedly funny wisecracks.

We shared a mutual love of film professor Brian Hendricks, and I see them together now sharing a rolled cigarette against the seawall, and shooting the breeze about their favorite Tarkovsky films.

The dazzling star of The Great Conjunction: it was her all along. I send my deepest condolences to her family and the endless lives she touched with her singular magic.

I can’t imagine that there was ever anyone who knew Kade, even a little, who didn’t love her. She often said I love you. She knew when you needed to hear that. And she really meant it. You can see it in her photographs, they are extraordinary pictures because the people in the pictures are almost completely at ease, because they are with Kade and when Kade was with you she was giving you everything all the time. She’s in every single photo she took, emanating light. If there is justice in this universe, we will meet her again in some way. I love you Kade.

Kade was a friend to everything and everyone, and my last memory of being with her was right before she moved to Calgary from Victoria, when we smoked cigarettes and she showed me her apartment in a beautiful house blessed by her, and then she took my portrait. The fact is that in my time knowing her she was always surrounded by others, and always shining. I loved the way she talked through the middle of her face and wrinkled her nose, like she was making an effort to condense the majesty of what was behind it for others to understand.

We shared a love of Brian Hendricks, a magical, courageous and life changing teacher she is probably hanging out with right now.

There is no place in the universe Kade is not beloved. I wish she had stayed in this one. And I am confident that she is being held now, and is able to expand beyond the sliver of her herness that we all got to witness and love.

I love Kade Krokocinski so very much, and I only knew her for a time. My loving condolences to her family, who I thank so deeply for generously sharing her with us all.

Once upon a time in Victoria, I met Kade Krokosinski, who barged into my universe laughing, with a cigarette in her hand. The first time she invited me over to her house, a second floor apartment in Cook Street Village that had the best sunset light, I was greeted by Alfie, the sweetest rag doll cat I ever did see, while Kade set our dinner table with so many courses I couldn't understand how the two of us could possibly eat everything she prepared. The only dish I remember was Campbell's cream of mushroom soup risotto, which I believe she claimed was a Wanda specialty. I loved it.

Kade was like a supernova: she made my already bright days at the University of Victoria even brighter; brighter than I ever thought they could be; I didn't know it was possible to have as much fun, or as many adventures, or to grow so much as we did together and with our mutual friends. She was a gifted portrait photographer; I would venture to say the best I have ever seen. And fortunately for all her friends, she was also a dedicated documenter of her everyday life. Anyone photographed by Kade has a treasure of themselves: because she could see into people, could see their truth. And because she loved her subjects, the truth was never ugly, always beautiful.

She positively exuded joy, enthusiasm, and spontaneity--pure life force--into the world. I was acquainted with the darkness she wrestled, but I never imagined that it could engulf her, such an extraordinary explosion of light. The supernova, a brilliant and temporary phenomenon, always ends too soon. Once they use up the last of their fuel, they collapse, often into a black hole, which is how I feel in my heart knowing that she is no longer here with us. The only consolation is that anyone loved by Kade carries a shard of her brightness with them forever, and shines it out into their own lives. It is impossible to forget, and impossible to hide.

I offer my sincere condolences to Wanda, and to Kade's whole family, as they face this profound loss.

Kade touched the lives of so many people in meaningful and lasting ways. It’s hard for me to believe that she isn’t still out there somewhere helping someone now, but I know that everyone who had the fortune to spend time with her will carry a piece of her energy and spirit with them forever, close to their heart, and that she will never be forgotten.

Thank you Wanda for bringing us Kade: you shaped her into a loving, brave, wise, giving person. Thank you Kade for all that you gave to this world: you showed us how to be truly accepting of others, you helped so many people live in dignity, you brought friendship to those that were alone, you brought laughter in darkness, you brought healing in pain. Thank you Kade for many of the happiest memories of my life that will live inside my soul forever.

Kade’s love has touched my life in an uplifting and deeply heartfelt way. Kade’s kindness, generosity and creative approach to life will always be an inspiration to me. I am saddened with grief for her passing. And I hope Kade’s mother Wanda and her family find the love and support that they need to survive this devastating loss.

Kade’s passing is a profound and heartbreaking loss. Kade was one of the best friends I have come to know, and I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend.

Kade and I spent our early twenties together in Victoria studying at the University. We shared a beautiful old character house with five other friends. It was a time in our lives marked by adventure, intellectual curiosity, and true, fearless friendship. When I was with Kade, I felt truly alive. Driving around in the valiant, eating her cabbage salad, sharing a cigarette in a sunbeam, sitting by the ocean.

During this period, Kade took remarkable photographs. It’s clear from her photos that there is something so fundamental about being alive that Kade understood and was able to capture. Kade was mischievous, playful, and exuberant. I loved how loud she could be and loved the sound of her voice. She had so much love to give to those around her. I loved Kade very much and will truly miss her.

My love to Wanda and Uncle Karl, and to her family. Please accept my sincere condolences for this tremendous loss.

Laura Matalas

Rather than share pictures, here is a link to Kade’s photos:

http://kadekrokosinski.blogspot.com/

Kade,

You were more than a friend to me, and from the moment we met, your warmth and caring nature eased any unrest I had, you, were my sister. Through all of me emotions I feel at this moment, I know with all my being that you will always live through my memories, and it is this that helps me each day deal with the thought that your physical self has left us. I love you now and always.

Rose.

Losing Kade was losing a comrade in weirdness, in heart, and in spirit. I imagine Kade roaring out of existence in that beautiful old car of hers, smelling like flowers and cigarettes, and singing full-throated to Roy Orbison. So long friend! What a shame that we only got to spend a few years in each others orbit. Wherever you are now, I am sure it is worthy of you.

We are so heartbroken to hear of the loss of Kade. Our hearts hurt with yours and we send all of our love and prayers for strength for your family and Kade’s friends. We are so terribly sorry for your loss.

Love, Kristin, Aaron and Arthur Hall

Dear Wanda, Karl & Family,

We are truly sorry to hear about Kade's passing. Our hearts and thoughts are with you during these difficult times.

Sending our love,

Matt and Debbie Veres

Dearest Wanda, Karl & family:

We were just heartbroken to hear the news of the loss of your sweet daughter/niece. Kade!

Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this terribly

difficult time!

Sending love and hugs,

Dale & Debbie XO

Dear Wanda,

Our hearts cry at your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Barry and Suzanne Verheyde

Family of Kade, I am so saddened to hear of this news. Kade befriended me in highschool and was a light to everyone and every space she met and walked into. My heart is with you all and I am so sorry to hear of this loss.

My Dear Kade,

You were the light in so many of my students' lives. There was one in particular that I know was in your heart. You found her and met in a place in her life that she so desperately needed. You heard her, you taught her, you took the time to listen. This is who you have always been. You found those who needed more than the academics and you reached into their hearts to make the biggest difference. This is my memory of you and your impact on my life also. You will always be a part of me, reminding me of how important it is to remember those special ones (as you and I knew who they were). I will miss you Kade, and all the love that you had to give.

Dear Wanda, I am very saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in thoughts and prayers.

Wanda

I am so sorry and saddened to hear of your loss, when you would mention Kade in conversation I always knew how great a mother you were and much love you had for her.

Gerry Nyberg and Family

Wanda & extended Family,

Please accept our heartfelt condolences as you suffer the great loss of such a beautiful young woman, Kade. We have so many fond memories of her growing up, always showing her best when she visited our Family just down the street. We cannot imagine your grief! We will pray for you, that you may be blessed with the strength to endure the most difficult days ahead! We will pray for Kade that her eternal rest will bring her the peace she sought. So so sad. Thinking of you all with much love.....Philip & Linda Blasetti & Family

This news crushed my soul. How sad we all are. Kade was a rare and charismatic young woman who exuded LOVE. I am so sorry for her struggles. Life can be so difficult.

Please know we care so much. You have been on my mind and in my heart constantly. Some day, I would love to sit with you and tell you just how much we were taken by your sparkly, beautiful girl.

xx Tracy and David McChesney

Jane and Molly

Wanda, it is with the heaviest heart, I wish you all the love and support. The McDougall family is here for you. This battle Kade fought is not an easy one. I remember the first time I met her, her charm was contagious. She will be missed. Much love.

Kade had the kindest heart and could see the hurt and the very best in others. Her generosity of spirit and beautiful laugh will never be forgotten. With much love, Sherry Martens

The stars that shine the brightest...burn the quickest. Our star ascended the night sky on the solstice of winter, and will forever beam her light of love and caring down on us!!! Love forever Brian and Ray

She always filled us with sunshine even if it was a dark cloudy day ! She was the most beautiful, complete women I have ever met ! Goodbye Kade miss you already !

This is heartbreaking. Kade is a true example of what it means to be kind. The world lost a good one. Condolences to her family during this difficult time.

My memories are images and feelings of a happy, young girl running and playing and laughing with her pal and spending time with her grandpa. Later of a young woman who had a gift for writing, engaging in dynamic conversations with people, and eating cupcakes made by one of her favourite people. She had such a way of greeting people like they were the only one who mattered. Sunny is a word that truly fits the Kade I knew and will miss.

Kade loved her family and her mom most of all. Wanda, my thoughts are with you.

Lori Pamplin

Wanda, I am speechless and very sad to hear about your tragic loss. Lucy and Harry always spoke highly of Kade - they were so proud of her and truly loved her. She is at peace now and I will keep all of you in my daily thoughts and prayers.

Hearing the news has created a crater in my soul. I can say that Kade was a burst of pure joy since we first met in Vancouver sitting on a balcony to the Calgary Christmas dinners we had with the family. Kade's ability to express herself through complete understanding, empathy, and love is something I will always admired.

Her character, values, and strength reminds me to be the person I will always strive to become. Kade was and will always be a role model to us all and an example of what love can be.

Words cannot tell the whole story nor sum the loss of Kade to all. She was vibrant young woman who's bubbly and outgoing personality greeted many who knew her. She had more friends than she realized and I am so sorry for your loss Wanda, I loved her and will miss her.

Byron Stephen

Words cannot express how sorry I was to hear that Kade has passed away. I hope the many happy memories you shared will comfort you and bring you peace.

Nel Verheyde